Power Distribution, Surge Protectors

1. What is Power Distribution Unit (PDU)?

Serving as the central expansion device for the power system, it provides multi-port output and centralized power distribution management. High-end models integrate intelligent monitoring capabilities, enabling real-time tracking of current load, energy consumption, and port status. Industrial-grade PDUs feature a 19-inch rack-mount design and are equipped with high-power interfaces such as C13/C19 to meet the power redundancy requirements of data center server clusters.

 

2. What is Surge Protector (SPD)?

1) Core Protection Mechanism:

Overvoltages are directed to the ground system within nanoseconds using nonlinear components such as varistors (MOVs) and gas discharge tubes (GDTs). MOVs experience a sudden drop in impedance when a threshold voltage is exceeded, creating a low-resistance path; GDTs utilize the ionization properties of gas to conduct high-energy surges.

 

2) Tiered Protection System:

First-level Protection: Installed at the power inlet, it protects against high-voltage surges of several thousand volts caused by direct lightning strikes or grid faults.

Second-level Protection: Further limits residual voltage to a safe range for residual surges at the device end.

Final-level Protection: SPDs specifically designed for precision electronic equipment utilize fast-response components such as TVS diodes.

 

3. Application Scenarios and Technology Evolution

Data Centers: SPDs and PDUs work together to provide a three-level protection system, ensuring continuous server operation during lightning strikes or grid fluctuations.

Smart Homes: Surge-protected power strips with integrated USB charging ports simultaneously power digital devices and provide transient overvoltage protection.

Industrial Sector: SPDs specifically designed for DC power supplies (such as the PC40-1000DC model) are suitable for photovoltaic systems and DC circuits in communication base stations. The latest SPD designs incorporate thermal fuses to prevent MOV component failure and fire, and LED status indicators indicate component lifespan.

Note: SPDs cannot protect against sustained low voltage (such as power outages/voltage sags) or ultra-high energy shocks from direct lightning strikes. They must be used in conjunction with a UPS system for comprehensive power protection.